Issue link: https://blog.providence.org/i/1470102
Health Matters: Providence St. Jude Medical Center | 9 Turning Back Surgery into a Minimally Invasive Procedure T he pain from spinal stenosis steadily took away all of Shirley Chang's favorite things: ballroom dancing, days of shopping-till- you-drop, and making dinner for friends and family. "Every movement caused pain," explains the 84-year-old grandmother, who says she was afraid to have back surgery. That is, until she heard about robot-assisted spine surgery, a new technique that uses state-of-the-art navigation, real-time 3D imaging and unmatched precision to transform back surgery. The features of traditional back surgery—a 15-inch incision, three to five days in the hospital, and weeks of recovery—are replaced by a few tiny incisions, an overnight stay and, in Shirley 's case, a return to grocery shopping within days. It's the story of a championship dancer, a talented surgeon and a very happy ending—taking place with the backdrop of the state's only hospital named a center of excellence in robotic spine surgery. To watch the story, simply scan the QR code with your cell phone. It's Time to Reconnect—and Help Others Do the Same A phasia robs you of the ability to communicate. Often the result of a stroke or head injury, the condition can make it difficult to speak or understand language. Our Providence St. Jude speech language pathologists are experts in strategies and therapies to help those with aphasia improve their ability to communicate and their quality of life. Our communication groups, led by our speech language pathologists, allow anyone affected by aphasia to challenge themselves, improve conversational skills, and reconnect with others. To keep the groups affordable and open to all who need them, our speech therapists train volunteers to help. As a volunteer, you'll learn key communication techniques and become a trained conversation partner. The connections you develop may be as meaningful to you as the person you help. Communication groups meet on Monday mornings. If someone you love is affected by aphasia—or you'd like to become part of this essential program as a trained volunteer—please call us at 714-992-3000 ext. 1604.